The survey results were shocking: on average across Europe, drivers answered only half of the questions correctly. None of the 2,800 respondents knew the rules 100%. True, as Deutsche Welle notes, there were three who made only one mistake. The driving test tested knowledge of traffic rules, correct behavior while driving a car, and technical knowledge.
“Overall, the result was frightening,” said ADAC expert Robert Sauter. “The results are completely opposite to the self-assessment of the respondents: 94% consider themselves good or even very good drivers.”
Winter is just around the corner, and it is precisely at this time of year that gaps in traffic rules knowledge and lack of practical skills are especially felt. However, the Germans did not do so badly in this test: they answered correctly in 61.5% of cases and thus became second after the Austrians (64.4%). Portugal took third place, with 58.9% correct answers. The real underachievers of the test were the Slovenians, who knew answers to only 43.4% of questions, slightly better than them were the Spanish (47.2%) and the British (49.2%).
The test was organized by the German automobile club ADAC together with partner clubs from other countries. The questionnaires, containing questions to test both theoretical and practical knowledge, took into account differences in the legislation of individual countries on, for example, indicators such as permissible blood alcohol limits. The surveyed drivers, among other things, were required to know how to properly set up a warning triangle or what the tire pressure should be.
Only 10% of drivers across Europe could answer how to properly secure their car in case of a breakdown on the road. Only a few knew that, first of all, in such cases you should turn on the hazard warning lights, place a warning triangle at least 100 meters before the car, and take passengers to a safe place (for example, behind side barriers).
Moreover, the technical condition of the car directly affects the safety of road users. Therefore, when going on a trip, it is necessary to check not only the operation of the engine, but also the condition of the wheels and tires. And remember that many European countries very carefully monitor the seasonal equipment of cars – for example, whether the driver uses winter or summer tires (depending on the season).
It was also a revelation for many that rear fog lights can only be switched on when visibility is less than 50 meters. But all European drivers knew perfectly well that it is not allowed to talk on a mobile phone while driving, and that you must wear a seatbelt while driving.
However, of the German drivers surveyed, almost a quarter incorrectly stated the permissible blood alcohol content: instead of the permitted 0.5 per mille, they indicated 0.8. And, despite all the complaints about the high price of gasoline, many Germans had a poor understanding of how to consume it more economically.
Women in their answers distinguished themselves by better knowledge of theory and environmental protection measures. But men showed their superiority in practical matters, albeit very insignificant, note ADAC club experts.
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